Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan issued an address on the occasion of July 19 presidential elections.

The 5th presidential elections in the Nagorno Karabagh Republic have become fait accompli. They marked a new victory on the path of building a legal state and realizing our national aspirations. They are another manifestation of the nation’s high civil stance and wisdom. The people of Artsakh reconfirmed their adherence to international norms and standards, their irreversible determination to build a free, independent and fair state.

I express deep gratitude to citizens of Artsakh for participating in the elections, to my supporters who entrusted high confidence in me as well as those who voted for the other presidential candidates. For me as the Artsakh Republic President there is no greater and binding power than my nation’s confidence and responsibility for our country’s future. We are ready and resolute in carving this future.

I also express my gratitude to international observers who arrived in our country for monitoring the elections and assessed them as in line with international standards, free, fair and transparent. Their opinions, evaluations and recommendations are of utmost importance for the development of our state and its democratic institutions.

During the last five years much work has been done in our country, nevertheless, a lot still has to be done. We will be consistent in solving the existing problems, eliminating drawbacks and shortcomings. Everything possible will be done to develop and strengthen our state, raise the fighting efficiency of the Defense Army, boost the living standards of our people, expand and deepen Armenia-Artsakh-Diaspora ties. I am confident that with joint efforts we will be able to accomplish our national goals and aspirations and record new victories.”